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As you figure out what works best for you in life through your 20s, the same thing should be done with your skincare. Drinking lots of water, regular exercise, and adopting a proper skin care regimen will all contribute to achieving healthy, glowing skin. On top of that, we’re here to offer affordable cosmetic treatments that can provide the extra boost of confidence and happiness in your 20s.
Reach out to us to learn more about our confidence-boosting cosmetic treatments today!
Is it ever OK to gift cosmetic treatments?
Absolutely! While it may still be risky to give such a personal gift to your boss or your mother-in-law, in 2021 it is acceptable to give some cosmetic treatments if the recipient has put it on their wish list. The millennial generation has no qualms about requesting cosmetic treatments such as Botox or lip fillers. Many view these beautification procedures as mainstream and an important part of their personal maintenance.
In recent years, non-surgical cosmetic treatments have become more accessible and extremely popular. Unfortunately, the availability of counterfeit products, such as fake fillers and fake botox are also on the rise. If you are considering cosmetic injections, it’s important to know that you’re getting the real deal. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself from fake injectable products.
Did you ever think you could achieve a defined jawline, without having to undergo surgery and a daunting recovery? As the beauty industry continues to advance, we are seeing an increase in non-invasive procedures. Non-surgical chin and jawline reshaping has become a popular cosmetic procedure offering streamlined results without the intense healing period. Advanced injectable techniques and more sophisticated products provide more options to safely address the chin and jawline, which were previously treated only surgically. We are all unique individuals as a result of our genetic make-up and we want to respect our innate beauty. With that said, what if it were possible to enhance our attributes?
In the rapidly growing medical aesthetics industry, how should you know who to choose to perform your cosmetic injections? There are essential guidelines required, as well as good indicating factors to help you decide. First, adequate knowledge of anatomy, medicine, and the ability to respond to rare complications is essential for any cosmetic injector. On top of that, regulations for those who are allowed to perform injections are determined by jurisdiction. In New Brunswick, only a medical doctor, physician, or supervised RN may legally perform cosmetic injections.
With these minimal guidelines, what other important factors should you consider when choosing your cosmetic injector?
Feeling and looking your best is not reserved only for the ladies! Both sexes invest time and money in fitness and fashion, so it only makes sense that medical aesthetic treatments and skincare have become a priority too.
In the past, the aesthetics industry has been largely targeted to female consumers. Over the past 12 years working in this field, I have seen the transition women have made from hiding their Botox “habits” to bringing friends and family to appointments. Social media, celebrity influence, and the more tolerant views of Millennials and Gen X’ers have helped de-stigmatise what was once perceived as VANITY. Today, I do more injectable treatments like Botox and Fillers than ever before!
Unfortunately, most men intrigued by the world of injectables have been left in the dark. The topic is still taboo among most guys. But with time those societal norms will change, just as they did for women over the last decade. In the meantime, scheduling a consultation with an experienced cosmetic physician to discuss your concerns is a great first step. We enjoy educating our clients on the best options for them. The more you know about treatments, the more empowered you will feel to make the decision that is right for you.
For anyone, male or female, who may feel self conscious in the waiting area – we’ve got you covered! We offer our clients a discreet alternative entrance and private waiting area upon request. If you prefer additional privacy, let our staff know upon scheduling your appointment.
Men have the same desire for a natural yet youthful appearance as women but perhaps driven by different goals. A changing and competitive workplace that increasingly values youth over experience has motivated some men to seek out injectables such as Botox and fillers to maintain their confident edge. Many of these men are vigorous and take pride in their appearance. They want to look distinctive, vibrant, and energetic. This is particularly important to men who work in sales, business, and media. And since men are much less likely to undergo cosmetic surgery, injectables are an excellent alternative delivered comfortably in the physician’s office with little or no downtime. For those with busy schedules, you can even return to work the same day!
Even though we are an all female professionally staffed clinic, we want our male clients to feel comfortable disclosing to us their concerns without fear of judgement. Commonly, men tell us they dislike the tired look that has developed around their eyes. With aging, they have lost volume in their mid-cheeks and have developed hollows or bags under their eyes. Fillers are ideal for restoring vitality in this area and to contour strong angles to the chin and jawline.
With so many options for injectables, it is important to search out a provider that understands the differences between the ideal feminine and masculine facial traits and is able to make slow and subtle changes over time. A good consultation and treatment with your experienced injector will assure you leave with a refreshed look that enhances your masculine features!
Are you being flooded with beauty ads filled with unrealistic and sometimes blatantly false claims? It can be difficult to separate fact from fiction with so much information out there. Every cosmetic company is vying for your attention and precious dollars in this highly competitive industry. What can we really expect from the skin care products we choose?
With expertise grounded in science, we have weeded out some of the common misleading information to help choose wisely.
The terms “natural” and “organic” mean derived from nature. Unfortunately, these words are purposefully misleading and unregulated in advertisements, so buyer beware. Just because an ingredient grew out of the ground does not automatically make it safe or good for your skin. Take for example poison ivy, a plant that would be considered a natural product and is well known for causing extreme skin reactions. The reverse is also true, synthetics and chemicals are not all bad. Some lab synthesized “chemicals” are actually naturally occurring compounds like Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. Many effective cosmeceuticals are a combination of naturally occurring and man-made ingredients.
The term “hypoallergenic” is another unregulated advertising term that has no factual scientific basis. It implies that the ingredients are better tolerated and gentler on sensitive skin. Because we are all unique, there is no way to accurately test products for how our skin may react to them. Trying out different skin care products is the only way to know your tolerance to the ingredients. Sample sizes are a good way to trial a product for yourself.
The effectiveness of the product is determined by the formulation, not the price. Unfortunately, labelling of cosmetic ingredients is not mandatory but most brands will label for active ingredients such as Vitamin C, retinol, and AHA/BHA. Fancy packaging and expensive ad campaigns do not mean better quality. Good products can be found in every price range. With the guidance of a trusted professional, search out the products with the right active ingredients for your needs.
Don’t buy into the hype. The majority of ingredients in topical skin care products simply sit on the surface of the skin, plumping it temporarily. By nature, the skin is a protective barrier. Only the smallest of molecules can penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin. Recent trends in beauty promote hyaluronic acid in creams to fight wrinkles. The truth is that the while the hyaluronic acid molecule can absorb a thousand times its weight in water making it an excellent surface hydrator, it cannot penetrate the skin barrier to make any structural changes unless injected into the deeper skin layers.
So what does work? Retinol, derived from Vitamin A, is one product that has scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness at treating acne, reducing fine lines and wrinkles and reversing sun damage. It does this by penetrating the deeper skin layers and increasing cell turnover. Some peptides and antioxidants like Vitamin C are also small enough to penetrate into the deeper skin layers where they are effective in providing building blocks for collagen, elastin, protection against damaging free radicals, and lightening of pigmentation.
Those active ingredients which benefit the skin do so when used consistently over months and years. Regrettably, there is no magic potion to make wrinkles disappear or to prevent them. Shielding your skin from the sun and daily use of sunscreen are the two best things you can do.
Topical skin care products cannot work like cosmetic injections because the ingredients cannot reach the targeted areas. Regardless of the claims, it just isn’t possible. With cosmetic injectables, the fillers or neuromodulators are delivered into the deeper skin layers where they are almost immediately effective.
Don’t skimp! While a few drops of serum may be enough to get adequate coverage, when it comes to creams most people need more than this. It is also important to apply products to your neck, décolletage, and backs of your hands. When marketing and packaging creams and serums, cosmetic companies often promise enough product in the purchase size to last 3 months. This is rarely the case and if you are stretching your products beyond 3 months you are not likely applying enough to be effective at all.
Active ingredients are what is important. It is fine to find a cleanser you like in one brand, a Vitamin C serum from another, and a moisturizer with SPF from yet another.
Many brands promote kits as simple and straightforward regimens for targeted problems (e.g. acne, rosacea, pigmentation, anti-aging). Most people have multiple skin concerns that may not be addressed in a focused kit. Kits may be cost effective if you need to use all the products they contain and if they all run out at the same time. However, some kits may include extra steps and products such as toners which may be drying, irritating, and unnecessary.
Adding more products to your skin care regime will not guarantee better results. Don’t fall prey to FOMO. The more products that you apply to your skin, the more likely you are to react unfavorably to the combination and the more difficult it will be to sort out the irritating culprit.
Take for example eye creams. While you may wish to choose a product labelled specifically as an eye cream, it is not necessary. Your selected fragrance-free moisturizer or serum should be just as effective when applied around the eyes.
There is something to be said for a minimalist approach to skin care, where a few select and targeted products are used consistently over time to provide the best results. Focus your search on the active ingredients that you need. Do your research or rely on the guidance of a trusted professional. There is no magic fix. If respecting a budget, purchase well-formulated inexpensive brands and consider saving your dollars for injectables which will provide more immediate and dramatic results.
Weddings take months of planning and it’s easy to get caught up in decisions about gowns, venues, and guest lists that a good beauty plan is forgotten or postponed. It is becoming more popular for brides, parents, guests, and even grooms to seek out cosmetic treatments before the big event. After all, who doesn’t want to enjoy the day, relaxed and confident in knowing that they look their best?
So if you are considering cosmetic treatments, particularly injectables, what is the best timeline to ensure you are picture perfect?
It's all in the planning
If you’re new to cosmetic injections, it’s best to start at least 6 months before the big day – ideally as far ahead as 9 to 12 months. Start by searching for the right cosmetic physician who will work with you to develop a treatment plan.
What are my options?
Like doing a trial for your wedding day hair and makeup, a trial of Botox is always a good idea! Because Botox lasts 3-4 months, booking a trial treatment should be done 6 months prior to your big day. This gives your injector time to develop your specific Botox treatment map and make adjustments to achieve your desired look. You will also enjoy looking great in the months leading up to the wedding!
If you’re on a shorter timeline, we recommend booking treatment at least 4 weeks before your wedding day to allow time for the treatment to kick in and for touch ups if necessary. Botox results always look best at the 4-week mark.
There are so many options for filler treatments! Your cosmetic provider can help you decide which option aligns best with your aesthetic and vision for your day. Cheek and lip enhancement are popular for younger brides. More mature brides and mothers of the bride or groom may seek to achieve an overall rejuvenation. Fillers can be used to enhance features or create a more vibrant and refreshed look. The latest Skinbooster hydrating fillers are injected superficially to absorb water and give a smoother, more radiant complexion. Fillers can be used in many areas including backs of hands, neck, décolleté, and earlobes. Depending on the area that is treated, and the type of product used, hyaluronic acid fillers last from 6 months to 2 years. Aim for 6 to 8 weeks prior to the big day to allow the filler to “settle in” and for any hint of bruising or swelling to completely resolve.
For years, celebrities have relied on Botox injections to ensure completely dry underarms for their red-carpet events. So too can the bride, groom, and members of their wedding party! After all, who wants to be self-conscious about sweating knowing all eyes are on you. Best of all, when used to treat excessive sweating, Botox used in the underarm takes only a week to become effective.
But wait… there’s more!
Other cosmetic treatments such as Belkyra for double chin, microneedling for improvement of skin texture, IPL for pigmentation, and laser hair removal all require a series of treatment sessions over months. The timelines for these cosmetic treatments vary so it is recommended to consult your cosmetic provider early as they will be the best resource to help plan these treatments.
Reduce Stress and Enjoy the Day
There are plenty of details to stress over when preparing for a wedding. Planning well in advance with a cosmetic physician in whom you trust will help reduce anxiety you may experience when unsure about pre-wedding treatments.
We are here to help you feel confident in your beauty and ensure the captured moments will be ones you will forever treasure.
